Hull has claimed a major accolade at this year’s Yorkshire Property Awards.
The Game Changer Award, sponsored by Barclays, looks at projects that have had a material effect on the surrounding environment and local market, and it is where Hull’s title as UK City of Culture 2017 captured the attention of judges.
Although not even halfway through the tenure, the effects of being City of Culture are already being felt across the city by residents and businesses alike.
The city has seen a surge in visitors since January with footfall in the city centre up, museum and gallery year-on-year visitor figures smashed and businesses reporting a boom in trade.
Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Stephen Brady said:
“As a city we have all worked hard in preparation for our year as UK City of Culture 2017, and to receive this award reaffirms what we all know – Hull is rising high and challenging past perceptions.
“The council has invested over £100m into the transformation of the city with a stunning and inviting new city centre, revamped venues and brand new concepts like Hull Venue.
“We believe in the future of the city and will continue to shout it from the rooftops.”
Martin Green, Director Hull 2017, said:
“The response to Hull being UK City of Culture has been incredibly positive and we have been delighted by the public and the media reaction to the cultural programme.
“Our opening event Made in Hull attracted 342,000 visits, surpassing all our expectations, and the anecdotal indicators are looking good.
“As well as delivering a successful programme, we hope this important year for the city will help ensure Hull’s attractiveness as a place to live, work, study and invest in continues to grow.”
